On 10 February, NZ Business Connect Hamilton brought local professionals together for an evening of connection, insight and inspiration, hosted at Collins Automotive. Well known in the Waikato for their exceptional customer service and strong reputation in the automotive industry, Collins Automotive provided the perfect setting for the first Hamilton event of 2026.
The evening featured guest speaker Sue Loder, Business Growth Advisor at Soda Inc, who delivered practical and thought provoking insights into what it truly takes for local businesses to grow and thrive. Sue challenged attendees with a simple but powerful statement: “If you don’t have any problems, that’s your first problem.”
Her message encouraged business owners to rethink obstacles, not as setbacks, but as indicators of opportunity. Through her work with Soda Inc, Sue supports businesses across funding and co funding opportunities, management coaching and digital marketing strategy. Her guidance helps local enterprises navigate growth challenges while building strong, sustainable foundations for the future.
The event also shone a spotlight on The Girl on the Swing, a premium cake studio known for its beautifully crafted custom creations. Owner Izzy Hughes, who has led the business for the past three years, has built meaningful partnerships with charities and loyal clients while continuing to grow the studio’s reputation for quality and creativity. Her story added a strong local flavour to the evening and highlighted the impact small businesses can have within their communities.
As the evening concluded, attendees left with strengthened networks, fresh perspectives and renewed motivation. Events like these continue to demonstrate the value of bringing local businesses together, not only to share expertise, but to foster collaboration, innovation and long term growth across the Waikato business community.
Contact NZ Business Connect:
027 458 7724
phillip@nzbusinessconnect.co.nz